5 weird things about writing that works by KAMAL SUCHARAN BURRI

 Being a filmmaker and writer, I’ve discovered some ridiculous but enlightening tips that increase the potential of a writer. I was totally astonished by the fact that they worked for me.

1. Use a notepad for drafting, rather than a notebook

I’ve just noticed this a few days back. I have the habit of writing scripts in notebooks and sometimes in separate pages. One day I went to the bookshop and accidentally purchased the “NOTEPAD”, the one where you flip off pages vertically. I started writing on it; to my bewilderment the writing

flow of mine was awesome. It might be due to fewer distractions from the previous page as I obviously flip off to the new page every time. I don’t know why, but trust me, it works.

2. Never worry about editing, just go with the flow first

My writing professor used to say, “Never edit in your mind”. I’ve been following the rule ever since. Of course your first draft is crappy but editing while you write makes you miss some jewels that might add up to the glory of the finished copy. Writing is a miracle; don’t demean it to the level of magic by editing the elements that could have turned a mere phrase into an eloquent work of art.

3. Cater to yourself with specific music that relates to the mood of your intended writing

Music always taps an unconscious side of you and it has the profound ability to transform your senses if you let it. So while writing, try to relate the music to the context/genre/mood/plot of intended writing, which of course, is not always the mood you’re in. You have to discover your own taste for music only by trial and error, yet the result is worthy enough. Note: Make sure the music is without words/lyrics that might distract you. Listen to plain melody that suits your scene. If you are comfortable with it, just go ahead.

4. Never ever promise yourself to write

This seems to be ridiculous but if you promise yourself to write in a deadline, the pressure actually builds that might hamper your true potential. Rather commit to write everyday as a habit. You can’t inspire your unconscious persona by your conscious deadline pressures. Let your writing flow to eternity, devoid of all restrictions, deadlines, and pressures.

5. Write in minimal clothes

I mean write in your most comfortable clothes. Obviously you can’t write in a suit. To be precise, the discomfort of clothing should not make you stressed out while writing. Have the most comfortable clothing and that is purely subjective. Your last worry should be your clothes while you consciously worry about the words.

The paradox  is that you discover more of these weird things that help you be more effective in due course, which is entirely subjective. What might work for you may not work for others, although sometimes it might. Writing is a personal experience.